Households are being urged to smear yoghurt on their windows this week as the heat is set to return in a matter of days. The fifth heatwave of the summer is due to start soon, with temperatures climbing through the week and peaking on Thursday, especially in southeast England where the mercury could top 36C again.
How Yoghurt Keeps Your House Cool
Experts say you can roll yoghurt over your window to create an amateur sunshade. When the yoghurt dries, it forms a reflective film, like frosted glass, which stops the sun from shining through and warming the house. This cheap, easy method doesn't smell and can be washed off once the heatwave ends.
According to heatwavetoolkit.com: “Is the sun beaming through your windows? Paint a temporary coating on the external surface of the glazing. This will reflect some heat from the direct sun entering the property and is far more effective than closing internal blinds or curtains. It will reflect heat away while still allowing light through, and it will be ready to be washed away when not needed.”
Practical Tips for Applying Yoghurt
But you don’t need to buy an expensive window coating product - just use a tub of Danone. “What’s cheaper, more readily available and works even better? Yoghurt. Apply with a paint roller and reach first-floor windows with a telescopic pole. Use masking tape to leave a few eye-level gaps to maintain a view. Once the heatwave is over, wipe it clean. It comes off easily. Do it yourself, or invite your regular window cleaner over.”
The account added: “When the heatwave is over, just wash it off! Does it smell? No! Does it attract vermin or insects? No! Give it a try and let us know how you get on. With the masking tape we use, this costs us just 60p per window.”
